BEAR AUTO REPAIR

Your parking brake, also known as the emergency brake or handbrake, might seem like a backup system you rarely use. But when you need it to work on a steep incline, during a tow, or in the event of hydraulic brake failure, it has to do its job. If you've noticed that your parking brake doesn’t hold like it used to, it could point to one of several issues hiding beneath your vehicle. Ignoring a weak or nonfunctional parking brake is more than just an inconvenience. It can create a serious safety risk and lead to damage if your vehicle rolls unexpectedly. Let’s explore what might be going wrong and what to do about it. How the Parking Brake Works Unlike your main brake system, which relies on hydraulic fluid to activate calipers or wheel cylinders, the parking brake is mechanical. It typically uses a cable system connected to either the rear disc or drum brakes. When ... read more

As the leaves begin to change in Northern Delaware, fall is the perfect time to think about preventive maintenance for your vehicle. With summer heat behind us and winter weather on the horizon, scheduling service now ensures your car is ready for the road ahead. Recovering from Summer Stress Hot summer months can take a toll on your vehicle. High temperatures strain your cooling system, battery and tires. Fluids like oil, coolant and brake fluid may also break down faster in the heat. A fall inspection helps catch any wear or damage caused during summer driving before it becomes a bigger issue. Preparing for Colder Weather As temperatures drop, your vehicle faces new challenges. Cold weather can reduce battery power, thicken fluids and make starti ... read more

Spark plugs may be small, but they play one of the most important roles in your vehicle’s performance. Without them, your car’s engine simply wouldn’t run. Each spark plug creates the electrical spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture inside the engine’s cylinders. This controlled explosion generates the power that keeps your car moving. Spark Plug Problems When spark plugs are working properly, your engine starts quickly, runs smoothly and delivers the fuel efficiency and performance you expect. However, worn or faulty spark plugs can cause a variety of problems. Common signs include rough idling, misfires, sluggish acceleration, poor fuel economy or difficulty starting your car. In some cases, a failing spark plug can even trigger your check engine li ... read more

As summer winds down in Northern Delaware, many of us are looking forward to the crisp fall air and cooler temperatures. But before you say goodbye to summer completely, it’s worth considering what the hotter weather may have done to your vehicle’s cooling system over the past few months—and why now is the perfect time for a cooling system inspection. Working Harder in the Heat During the hot summer months, your engine works extra hard to stay cool. The radiator, water pump, thermostat and coolant all work together to regulate engine temperature. Prolonged exposure to high heat can cause coolant to break down more quickly, hoses to weaken, and small leaks to develop in your radiator or water pump. If ignored, these issues can lead to overheating, engine damage&nbs ... read more

When most drivers think about routine vehicle maintenance, services like oil changes, brake inspections or tire rotations usually come to mind. But there’s another fluid that plays a critical role in keeping your vehicle reliable: differential fluid. What is the Differential? The differential is the component that transfers power from your transmission to the wheels, allowing them to rotate at different speeds when turning. This is vital for smooth handling and safe driving. Inside the differential, gears and bearings work under high stress, and differential fluid lubricates and protects them from heat and friction. The Need for Differential Maintenance Over time, however, this fluid breaks down. It becomes contaminated with metal particles and loses it ... read more